NATO benefits both Europe, US: Estonian foreign minister

GENEVA

NATO remains essential for the security of both Europe and the US, Estonia’s foreign minister said Wednesday, warning that even suggestions of withdrawal could undermine the alliance.

Margus Tsahkna said in a statement that Estonia highly values the US contribution to transatlantic security and supports open discussions among allies, but cautioned: "Suggestions of withdrawing from NATO or even considering such a step are harmful, even if they are not acted upon."

"NATO is beneficial for both Europe and the United States," he said, noting the alliance has ensured stability on both sides of the Atlantic for nearly 80 years.

Tsahkna stressed that "all Allies would lose from any weakening of NATO," pointing to the alliance’s collective defense principle under Article 5, which has been invoked only once, after the 9/11 attacks in the US.

He highlighted Estonia’s contributions to NATO missions, noting that 11 Estonian soldiers were killed and more than 100 wounded in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The minister also underscored increased defense spending among allies, saying all NATO members now meet the 2% of GDP benchmark, with several exceeding it.

"This means that European NATO Allies and Canada have in recent years added billions to strengthen defence capabilities, demonstrating that Allies take defence seriously," he said.

He added that Europe must continue to take on a greater role in ensuring its own security, both independently and within the alliance.

"We will continue to work to ensure that Europe takes on an even greater role in safeguarding the security of our continent," the minister said. "We must demonstrate through our actions that we are capable of contributing to security both independently and within the Alliance."